Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Sash windows that are older than 20 years old can be afflicted with various issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be inefficiently insulation. With a little attention, they can be restored to their original performance.

First, cut off the seal of paint using an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, pull out the upper sash, and remove any cords or chains. Store the hardware in a bag with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows are beautiful in old buildings but they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues such as cracks in putty, wet rot and draughts. Repair, sealing, or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to eliminate these issues and improve energy efficiency.

The gaps between sash frame are the primary cause of draughts. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattle. Different methods can be employed to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, special products and secondary glazing.

A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame, or the bottom of the sill and the sash. This could cause moisture to leak into the wood, which can cause rotting and the growth of mold. Seal the gap using silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

If a gap is preventing the windows from opening and closing easily, it could be necessary to replace sash runners or spring bronze. These strips of bronze are tied or stapled to the lower sash edges to prevent the rattling of the sides. They can be bought at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it can rip, and it can make a difference to the appearance of windows.

When replacing sash runners It is crucial to measure the entire width of the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the meeting rail and from the bottom of sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners which will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older buildings there is a greater gap between the sash as well as the frame on the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed by using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be squarely trimmed and placed in accordance with the angle of the sill. Use stainless steel screws since brass can be rusty. Also, use high-quality silicone or polyurethane glue.

Refurbishment

The sash is a stunning, historical feature of many homes. Yet despite their beauty, windows like sash windows can be prone to a myriad of issues. Common problems include rattling, stuck or draughty windows. The rotted frames and the meeting rails as and broken glazing bars, defective frames or weights that are rotten can all cause problems. If you are experiencing any of these issues it's time to replace or repair your sash.

Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can bring back the appearance and windows repairs function of your sash double glazed window repair to as good if not better than the original condition. Refurbishment involves lining both the meeting rail and the sash box using traditional putty and fixing any damage caused by the rot. It also involves re-painting the timber frame and re-glazing with traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of repairing glass). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises the frame can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the old frame and maintain your property's heritage style. This is especially crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows need planning permission.

Compare the metal tabs of the new window with the old sash prior to installing it (see below). If they are different shapes the new sash may not fit into the slots of the window frame.

If a window has been damaged, it's essential to choose between replacement or repair, because each kind of work will involve a different level of expertise and expense. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be a better alternative. But in the event that the glass has been damaged in a tiny section or a sill is rotting then a repair will be the better option.

Replacement

While a lot of homeowners are eager to keep their old windows in good condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically suggest replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other methods to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the problem. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace the window. A foggy glass problem for instance is typically caused by the sash and can be fixed without tearing out the entire frame. It is usually possible to fix a weak seal with a few simple fixes, rather than ripping out the entire frame and reinstalling it.

Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. It can be a challenge to fix some common problems such as broken panes, or sash cables that have snapped. The majority of homeowners don't want take apart the window frame to fix the issues. For these reasons, many homeowners choose to work with a specialist.

A professional can help restore windows with sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This can include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss through the window repair. It is also possible to put in an extra strip of brush pile to stop rattling, and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, remove the window stops. (The moldings are on the side of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure location. Heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles by using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads and put back the upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace windows with sash is an important one for homeowners. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair than replacing. Maintaining them in good condition can also save energy costs. Sash windows are prone to drafts, rattles, and condensation, and these issues can lead to higher energy bills and damage to the frame and sash.

Sash windows can be difficult to open and close. The sliding mechanism may become dislodged or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of sash windows to professionals, as they require extensive dismantling. With the right tools and skills it's possible to fix an the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess how to get started:

Remove any security fittings that are just in front of the lower window sash. Next, take off the staff bead and pull out the bottom sash. Then, remove the cords or chains on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the attached weights. The next step is to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops, a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash can be pulled back to reveal the balancing weight which is a large iron cylinder that is encased in a concealed cavity and held by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it using a nail, and sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint from the sash stops with a utility knife. Once the sashes are returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are not too large to risk damaging the weight that is balancing.

To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, and then the lower sash. Check that the sash stops and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.